Haiti’s Unending Transition to Democracy: Gangs, Politics, and Hope

The current situation in Haiti is dire, marked by a catastrophic security and political crisis. To shed light on this complex landscape, we speak to Robert Fatton, Emeritus Professor of Politics at the University of Virginia and a native Haitian on this episode of The LatinNews podcast.

The assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021 created a political vacuum filled by Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who promised elections and reforms that never materialized. "The elections didn’t take place, the security situation deteriorated further," Robert explains, expressing skepticism about upcoming elections scheduled for December 13, 2026. He questions the feasibility of conducting credible elections amid rampant violence: "It’s exceedingly difficult to see how people can go and vote."

Robert concludes with a sobering assessment of Haiti’s future, indicating that the situation may worsen before it gets better. "I’ve never been as pessimistic about the situation as I am now," he admits, leaving listeners with a sense of urgency and concern for the Haitian people amidst this ongoing crisis.

For a more in-depth exploration of Haiti's struggles and the implications for its future, listen to the full episode.

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